Feeding mealworms to Leopard Geckos
Mealworms are one of the most popular feeder insects for leopard geckos and other reptiles. Mealworms are high in protein and can provide a much needed dietary supplement for geckos. But, there are a few things you should know before you start feeding mealworms to your gecko.
Things to Consider
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- Feeding Frequency – Mealworms should not be the only food that you feed your gecko. They should be fed no more than twice a week as a supplement.
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- Supplements – Mealworms should not be supplemented. This will limit the nutritional benefit that the mealworms provide as they are already quite low in vitamins and minerals.
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- Gut Loading – Before feeding your gecko mealworms, it is a good idea to “gut load” the mealworms with a healthy diet. This means feeding the worms a nutritious diet such as carrots, apples, or even reptile pellets the day before feeding them to your gecko.
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- Size – Make sure that the mealworms you are feeding your gecko are the right size. Mealworms can be very dangerous if they are too large as they can choke your gecko.
Treats
Mealworms can also be used as treats for your gecko. Mealworms are a great way to reward your gecko for good behavior or to make training easier. If you choose to use mealworms as treats, remember to feed them in moderation as too much can cause obesity or health problems in your gecko.
Overall, mealworms are a great option for providing your gecko with supplemental nutrition. Just make sure that you are aware of the risks and feed them responsibly.
